UPDATE: Governor Parson Proclaims April 23-29 Missouri Outdoors Week!
Spring in Missouri is magical. The days get longer. The woods come alive with tiny buds on trees. Dainty wildflowers spring from the earth. Peepers are peeping, turkeys are scratching, coyotes are calling, owls are hooting, and birds are singing. This is the time of year to Explore More, for finding a new turkey hunting or crappie fishing spot, for biking or hiking new trails, and for birding, camping, kayaking, and canoeing in places you’ve never been.
In 2022, Conservation Federation of Missouri (CFM), and Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation (MCHF) was pleased to announce the month of April as Missouri Outdoors Month. April is traditionally when warm weather brings out nature’s best and this partnership encourages and challenges individuals and families to Explore More and enjoy the outdoors.
Tyler Schwartze, CFM executive director, said declaring April as Missouri Outdoors Month is a great way to kick off the recreational season.
“CFM is happy to partner with the Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation,” said Schwartze. “The month of April serves as an excellent opportunity for people to get outside with friends, families and pets to explore all Missouri has to offer.”
CFM is a private organization made up of thousands of Missourians who work together to better Missouri’s natural resources and represent the state’s citizen conservationists. They ensure conservation of Missouri’s wildlife and natural resources and preservation of Missouri’s rich outdoor heritage through advocacy, education, and partnerships.
Tricia Burkhardt, MCHF executive director, said an outdoors month will help all conservation organizations by providing them with a platform to encourage and inspire people to go outside and enjoy Missouri’s natural resources.
To honor Missouri Outdoors Month, retailers may ask customers to round up their purchases to the nearest whole dollar at checkout during the month of April. Proceeds raised during the Round Up go to support conservation and outdoor-related projects in Missouri.
Recently, Governor Parson signed a proclamation stating April 23-29 will be Missouri Outdoors Week. Much like Missouri Outdoors Month, this week is meant to encourage people to get outside and enjoy nature. Although it’s been a chilly, wet month this year, April is traditionally when warm weather brings out nature’s best and the Outdoors Month and now the Outdoors Week encourages and challenges individuals and families to Explore More and enjoy the outdoors.
“The outdoors is for everyone,” said Burkhardt. “From trails to waterfronts and vast wildlife, Missouri offers plenty of activity. We encourage everyone to find those hidden outdoor gems in Missouri, discover what’s over the next hill and listen to the animals, wind, and water around you during the month of April and beyond.”
MCHF is always looking for more partners interested in the Round Up program during Missouri Outdoors Month. People are also encouraged to share their outdoors experiences on social media, raising awareness of the month. Stay tuned for the announcement of more activities to celebrate Missouri Outdoors Month. For more information, call 800-227-1488.
